The Role of Hormones in Women’s Stroke Risk

Although often overshadowed by breast cancer and other women’s health issues, stroke is a primary cause of mortality and morbidity among women in the United States today. This article explores three major populations of women: postmenopausal women who are taking hormone-replacement therapy, women ingesting estrogen-containing oralcontraceptive pills, and women who are currently pregnant. It compiles recent research and physiologic information that can aid in assessing these women’s risk for stroke. This review can help healthcare providers evaluate and manage these populations, and assess the health risks and benefits of certain estrogen-containing therapies.